Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep required.
- Print
Warm Spiced Apple Cider
Warm spiced apple cider is the perfect cozy drink for fall and winter. Made with fresh apple cider, cinnamon, cloves, and orange slices, this aromatic beverage is perfect for chilly nights, holiday gatherings, or a quiet evening by the fire. Enjoy it plain or spiked for a festive touch!
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min
- Yield: About 6 cups
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Apple cider
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves
- Whole allspice
- Star anise (optional)
- Fresh orange slices
- Fresh ginger (optional)
- Brown sugar or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
Instructions
- In a large pot, pour the apple cider and heat over medium heat.
- Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice, and star anise (if using).
- Toss in fresh orange slices and ginger for extra depth.
- Stir in brown sugar or honey, if desired.
- Let the cider simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once fragrant, strain out the spices and fruit.
- Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.
Notes
- For a spiked version, add bourbon, rum, or whiskey.
- For a richer flavor, let it simmer in a slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
Customizable – Adjust the sweetness and spices to your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holiday parties, family gatherings, or a quiet evening by the fire.
- Healthy and Natural – Made with real apple cider and whole spices, without artificial flavors.
- Aromatic and Inviting – Fills your home with a delightful, festive scent.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Apple cider
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves
- Whole allspice
- Star anise (optional)
- Fresh orange slices
- Fresh ginger (optional)
- Brown sugar or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
Directions
- In a large pot, pour the apple cider and set it over medium heat.
- Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice, and star anise (if using).
- Toss in fresh orange slices and a few slices of ginger for added depth.
- Stir in a bit of brown sugar or honey if you prefer a sweeter cider.
- Allow the cider to gently simmer for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once fragrant and well-infused, strain the cider to remove spices and fruit.
- Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 6 cups
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spiked Cider – Add a splash of bourbon, rum, or whiskey for an adult twist.
- Cranberry-Apple Cider – Mix in some cranberry juice for a tart flavor.
- Vanilla-Infused Cider – Add a vanilla bean or a few drops of vanilla extract.
- Chai-Spiced Cider – Include cardamom pods and a black tea bag for a chai-inspired version.
- Slow Cooker Version – Let the ingredients simmer on low for 2–3 hours for a richer taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cider in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cider in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How can I make this cider less sweet?
Use unsweetened apple cider and skip any added sugar or honey.
Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. Choose a high-quality, unsweetened apple juice for the best results.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 2–3 hours for a deeper infusion of flavors.
What’s the best alcohol to add for a spiked version?
Bourbon, rum, whiskey, or brandy all pair wonderfully with spiced apple cider.
Can I make this cider ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving.
Is it necessary to strain the cider?
Straining removes the whole spices and fruit, but if you don’t mind them floating in your cup, you can skip this step.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices?
Whole spices are best because they infuse the cider without making it cloudy, but ground spices can work if that’s all you have.
What can I serve with warm spiced apple cider?
It pairs well with cookies, pastries, or a cheese board.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Yes, just use unsweetened apple cider and omit any added sweeteners.
What can I do with leftover spiced apple cider?
Use it in baked goods, cocktails, or even as a base for mulled wine.
Conclusion
Warm spiced apple cider is a comforting and versatile drink that’s perfect for any fall or winter occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, spiked, or with a unique twist, this easy recipe will fill your home with cozy aromas and bring warmth to every sip. Make a batch today and savor the flavors of the season
